Why: Any list would be remiss in excluding this Manhattan gem. Make your reservation now.

What to order: The Black Label Burger is compiled of côte de boeuf (beef "blend" of rib eye, skirt steak, brisket and short rib) on fresh buns from Balthazar Bakery, bone marrow, and golden pomme frites. At $28, the pricey burger is definitely worth dishing out the cash.

Why: Open since 1942, the dive bar gained national recognition when it appeared on the show Man vs. Food in 2008.

What to order: The Thurmanator: Bottom bun, mayo, lettuce, tomato, pickle, banana peppers, a 12-oz burger, bacon, cheddar, another 12-oz burger, sautéed mushrooms and onions, a tower of ham, mozzarella, American cheese, top bun. Do NOT consume it in one sitting.

Why: The Sullivan's Island spot is named for Edgar Allan Poe, who, under the pseudonym Edgar Allen Perry, was stationed on the island in 1827. Locals paired his legacy in American literature to iconic American cuisine.

What to order: The Starving Artist Burger, the only bun-less burger on the list, comes with your choice of lavish cheeses, from marinated bacon-blue to sweet pepper goat.

What to get: The Country Fried Bacon Burger, a larger-than-average burger (everything is bigger in Texas), features deliciously-fried bacon and onion rings. Enjoy while watching Monday night football. .

Why: Located near Capitol Hill, BGR uses only prime, dry-aged beef and grill all their burgers (and there are a lot of variations) over an open flame. They give you an option to "create your legend," or you can choose one of their own masterpieces.

What to order: As the joint's "grand champion," the Wellington Masterpiece includes caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, black truffles and blue cheese crumbles. Their veggies burgers are also a delicious option.

A Part of Hearst Digital Media
Harper's BAZAAR participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.